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We’re growing a new Arnolfini

In 2018, inspired by the thousands of proposals to Imagine New Rules, Arnolfini will be preparing the ground for a dynamic, transformed centre for contemporary arts for Bristol.

I want the new Arnolfini to be an arts organisation of which Bristol can be truly proud: a convenor and a catalyst; a champion for the under-represented and under-heard; an advocate of Bristol internationally and a beacon of the most inspirational contemporary arts.

We want to grow a place where all forms of culture are experienced, made, produced and celebrated. We plan for international exhibitions to continue to play a significant part in our programme, but we also envisage Arnolfini as more than just a venue. We want it to be an organisation which sparks new ideas, new perspectives and connections across the city.

To grow this kind of ambitious creative resource with our partners, Arnolfini will establish smarter ways to generate its own funds to ensure that any public investment that we receive is focused on our cultural and engagement programme.

Being part of the national Change Creation programme offers us the opportunity to share this learning nationally with others who are developing more resilient, more relevant arts organisations for the 21st century.

I want to give the organisation the time and space for these changes to take root, so 2018 will be a year of transition for Arnolfini.

During this period, you’ll find us trialling new ways of using our spaces, nourishing creative practice through located fellowships, studio residencies, scratch weekends and hot topic socials, and welcoming new residents to our studios on the second floor.

In January, we’ll be de-installing Grayson’s exhibition and undertaking some physical changes to our spaces. Our Café Bar is open on 30 and 31 December, and then open as usual from 2 January. Our ground floor will open in early February, with special projects and events planned throughout the spring.

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Claire Doherty, Arnolfini Director

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